Manchester United agreed personal terms with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, as they hope to make the English star their first signing of the season.
Manchester United hope to start their summer rebuilding by bringing Branthwaite from Everton after Raphael Varane was released after his contract expiration.
Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag, who is currently discussing a new contract with the club hierarchy, revealed defensive injuries were the main reason the club struggled last season.
All five of the senior centre backs spent spells on the sidelines due to injuries. Manchester United defensive midfielder Casemiro was constantly used in the defence due to the non-availability of first-team defenders.
Branthwaite, who was fit throughout the season for the Everton side, represents the younger version of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, who have just a year left on their contract.
The Everton side had set an asking price of at least £70 million, which Manchester United are unwilling to pay.
The Merseyside Blue believe Branthwaite should be the most valuable player in the squad due to his age and his technical ability. Everton, who were given a point deduction last season, will be looking forward to selling players before June 30, 2024.
This is due to the fact that Everton need to comply with the Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules.
Manchester United are looking forward to securing some transfers very early under the reign of Sir Jim Ratcliffe as the club’s co-owner.
The new technical director, Jason Wilcox, is playing a major role in recruitment activities due to the non-availability of a sporting director.
Manchester United are also looking at other defensive targets ahead of next season in case Everton fail to sell Branthwaite. The club are currently monitoring the contract situation of Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt.
De Ligt played under Erik Ten Hag while the Manchester United boss was still the manager of Ajax. The Dutch defender will be looking forward to working with Erik Ten Hag again.
Another defensive target is Lille defender Leny Yoro. However, Manchester United will face strict competition from other football teams that want to sign the talented French defender.
Jarrod Branthwaite Stats
The defender made 124 appearances, scoring 10 goals and creating two assists in all club competitions. He had received 13 yellow cards and one red card so far in his career.
Out of the 10 goals scored, four were for Everton, four for PSV, one for Carlisle United, and one for Everton U-23.
He made his international debut for England on June 3, 2024.
How old is Jarrod Branthwaite?
The English defender was born on June 27, 2002, in the city of Wigton, England. He is currently 21 years old, with a height of 6 feet and 5 inches.
Jarrad Branthwaite Salary
The Everton defender receives a weekly income of £35,000 and a yearly income of £1,820,000.
